WHHM Conversation: Assessing the Value of Old and Rare Books

Kenneth Gloss, proprietor of the internationally known Brattle Book Shop in Boston’s Downtown Crossing, will give a talk on the value of old and rare books on March 26, at Woods Hole Public Library (581 Woods Hole Road). The event is co-sponsored by the Library and the Woods Hole Historical Museum.

Ken Gloss (left)

Mr. Gloss, who is also a frequent guest appraiser on PBS’s Antiques Roadshow, will talk in part about the history of his bookshop, which goes back to circa 1825. He is a second-generation owner.

He will also show some of his favorite finds and describe some of the joys of the “hunt,” as well as explain what makes a book go up in value. He has many anecdotes to share as well as guidelines for what to look for when starting a collection. There will be also a question-and-answer session before the conclusion of his talk.

Following the talk and question-and-answer session, Mr. Gloss will give free verbal appraisals of all books that attendees have brought with them.